AOPA efforts are making sure that the government doesn't lose sight of the importance of general aviation. When the U.S. House of Representatives passed its version of the bill to create the Department of Homeland Security last weekend, it included important language suggested by AOPA. The bill calls on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to use "all reasonable measures to ensure efficiency and a viable transportation system as it fulfills its security obligations."

But the House ignored a recommendation from its Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to delay moving TSA into the new Homeland Security Department.

"While I appreciate the House recognizing the importance of a safe and efficient transportation system," commented AOPA President Phil Boyer, "I don't think TSA should be in the Department of Homeland Security. Transportation security belongs in the Department of Transportation."

Meanwhile, the Senate is expected to vote on its version of the bill after the August recess. The current version of that bill in the Government Affairs Committee calls for further study of transportation security before deciding whether or not to move TSA.